When the first pitch is thrown at the Augusta Greenjackets game against the Rome Braves on Aug. 6, there won't be a paid pitching arm throwing it. In fact, the man throwing that pitch won't even be a baseball player at all.

The pitch in question is, of course, the ceremonial one, thrown before the game actually starts. Dr. Mark Petersen, superintendent of schools in McDuffie County, will do that honor to kick off McDuffie Night at Lake Olmstead Stadium.

"I'm real excited about getting to do that," Dr. Petersen said, "although I think I need to practice a few times before I do it."

The Chamber of Commerce has already sold 700 tickets to the game. Tickets can be purchased at the Chamber for $4 each when bought in groups of 25 or less. If the tickets are bought in groups of more than 25, the price drops to $3 each.

"Each of the schoolchildren will be given a ticket at their school's open house," said Carolyn Gilbert of the Chamber of Commerce, who added that parents would still need to buy tickets if they want to attend the game.

The game will begin at 7:15 p.m., and since the Greenjackets will be playing the Rome Braves, fans of the Atlanta Braves will get the added bonus of catching a glimpse of their favorite club's potential stars.

"We want to sell a lot of tickets to the game so the county will be well-represented," Mrs. Gilbert said.

Dr. Peterson is optimistic about the county's representation at the game.

"We expect a great turnout," he said, "and look for a good time."

To get to Lake Olmstead Stadium from McDuffie County, get on Interstate 20 and take the Washington Road exit. Follow Washington Road past the Augusta National toward Broad Street. Turn left off of the exit ramp to Broad Street. Then turn left onto Milledge Road. There will be signs pointing toward the stadium.